Adjustable walking apparatus

ABSTRACT

A walking apparatus is provided that includes a sole having an adjustable length, the sole comprising a heel portion, a forefoot portion operatively coupled to the heel portion, the forefoot portion configured for adjustment from a first position to at least one other position relative to the heel portion, wherein a length of the sole is configured to adjust from a first length to a second length when the forefoot portion is adjusted from the first position to the at least one other position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

This application is claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional ApplicationSer. No. 62/019,839, entitled “ADJUSTABLE WALKING APPARATUS,” filed Jul.1, 2014, which is expressly incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

The present disclosure relates generally to orthopedic walking boots.

2. Background

It is common that people, especially active and/or frail people,experience a variety of lower leg and ankle injuries. To aid in thetreatment of the injuries it is desirable to immobilize the injury,typically above and below the affected joint.

Physicians traditionally place a patient's leg in a short leg cast,which is a cast that usually begins at the patient's toes and ends belowthe patient's knee. Generally, casts retain heat, cause an itchingsensation on the skin, and rub against the leg particularly afterswelling of the leg subsides.

An alternative to the short leg cast is an orthopedic walking boot, or apremanufactured orthopedic walking boot, that is made of a rigid plasticframe lined with a soft component (e.g, a soft padding or a soft good)to accommodate the leg comfortably. Often, the liner, or soft component,may house a series of air bladders that can be adjusted by the patientto improve the fit and help compress the swelling to reduce pain andincrease stability. The orthopedic walking boots can be removed to treatskin problems, such as, to remove sutures or conduct passive range ofmotion exercises. Short leg casts do not offer the luxury of easyon/off, and the cost associated with applying another cast afterremoval.

An orthopedic walking boot is primarily a rigid encasing that usuallyenvelopes the leg and immobilizes the foot and ankle at a neutralposition (e.g., the foot extends 90 degrees relative to the leg). Thepatient can walk easiest if the ankle is fixed at 90 degrees. At anglesother than 90 degrees the patient will be walking on the toes or on theheel thereby altering the gait pattern of the patient. The outer sole ofthe foot is generally curved from front to back in a rocker bottomfashion. The curvature of the outer sole provides a smoother stride fromfront to back allowing the heel to strike the ground first, followed bya rocking of foot forward, and finally a push off on the toes for asuccessful step.

SUMMARY

In accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure a walkingapparatus is provided that includes a sole configured with an adjustablelength, a heel portion, a forefoot portion operatively coupled to theheel portion, the forefoot portion configured for adjustment from afirst position to at least one other position relative to the heelportion, wherein a length of the sole is configured to adjust from afirst length to a second length when the forefoot portion is adjustedfrom the first position to the at least one other position.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a walking apparatuskit that includes a base, a heel portion including a first treadportion, a plurality of forefoot portions each configured with adifferent length and a second tread portion, each of the plurality offorefoot portions configured for individual coupling to the heelportion, wherein when one of the plurality of forefoot portions iscoupled to the heel portion, the first tread portion and the secondtread portion form a sole.

In accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure, a methodof adjusting a length of a walking apparatus is provided that includesactivating an actuation mechanism located on a walking apparatus, andadjusting a length of the walking apparatus to conform to one or morepredetermined parameters related to a user upon activation of theactuation mechanism.

In accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure, a walkingapparatus in provided that includes a sole having an adjustable length,the sole comprising a heel portion, a forefoot portion operativelycoupled to the heel portion, the forefoot portion configured foradjustment from a first position to at least one other position, whereina width of the sole is configured to adjust from a first width to asecond width when the forefoot portion is adjusted from the firstposition to the at least one other position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-1D illustrate a side perspective view of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 2A-2F illustrate a side perspective view of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrate a side perspective view of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate a side perspective view of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 5A-5B illustrate a bottom perspective view of a walking apparatusin accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate a side view of a walking apparatus in accordancewith certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 7A-7E illustrate a side view of a walking apparatus in accordancewith certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 8A-8B illustrate an actuation mechanism of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 9A-9B illustrate an actuation mechanism of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 10A-10B illustrate a side view of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate a side view of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 illustrates a top view of a base portion of a walking apparatusin accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 13A-13B illustrate a side view of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of a walking apparatus in accordancewith certain aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 illustrates a method of adjusting a characteristic of a walkingapparatus in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure;and

FIGS. 16A-16G illustrate various views of a walking apparatus inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various aspects of the present disclosure will be described herein withreference to drawings that are schematic illustrations of idealizedconfigurations of the present disclosure. As such, variations from theshapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, manufacturingtechniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, the variousaspects of the present invention presented throughout this descriptionshould not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of elements(e.g., regions, layers, sections, substrates, etc.) illustrated anddescribed herein but are to include deviations in shapes that result,for example, from manufacturing. Thus, the elements illustrated in thedrawings are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended toillustrate the precise shape of an element and are not intended to limitthe scope of the present invention, unless intentionally described assuch.

It will be understood that when an element such as a region, layer,section, or the like, is referred to as being “on” another element, itcan be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also bepresent. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directlyon” another element, there are no intervening elements present. It willbe further understood that when an element such as a structure isreferred to as being coupled to another element, it can be directlyconnected to the other element or intervening elements may also bepresent. Similarly, two elements may be mechanically coupled by beingeither directly physically connected, or intervening connecting elementsmay be present. It will be further understood that when an element isreferred to as being “formed” on another element, it can be deposited,attached, connected, coupled, or otherwise prepared or fabricated on theother element or an intervening element.

Furthermore, relative terms, such as “lower” or “bottom” and “upper” or“top,” may be used herein to describe one element's relationship toanother element as illustrated in the drawings. It will be understoodthat relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations ofan apparatus in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings. Byway of example, if the orientation of an orthopedic walking boot shownin the drawings is turned over, elements described as being on the“lower” side of other elements would then be oriented on the “upper”side of the other elements. The term “lower”, can therefore, encompassboth an orientation of “lower” and “upper,” depending of the particularorientation of the orthopedic walking boot. Similarly, if theorientation of an orthopedic walking boot shown in the drawing is turnedover, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements wouldthen be oriented “above” the other elements. The terms “below” or“beneath” can, therefore, encompass both an orientation of above andbelow.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It willbe further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly useddictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art andthis disclosure.

It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or“comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence ofstated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/orcomponents, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or moreother features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components,and/or groups thereof. The term “and/or” includes any and allcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of various aspects of the presentdisclosure and is not intended to represent all aspects in which thepresent invention may be practiced. The detailed description includesspecific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understandingof the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilledin the art that the present invention may be practiced without thesespecific details. In some instances, well-known structures andcomponents are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuringthe concepts of the present disclosure.

Various aspects of the present disclosure may provide a walkingapparatus with an adjustable length and/or width that may be fittedaround the leg to provide support and allow ambulation for an affectedlimb.

People often experience injuries to the lower leg and ankle. Forexample, blunt trauma, sports injuries and common falls are the primarycauses. Injuries such as fractures of the bones or soft tissue injuries(e.g., ligamentous tears) have similar symptoms. Swelling, pain andinability to ambulate without support are expected and predictable. Someinjuries need to be immobilized for a period of time for the injury toheal. The time required for ligamentous injuries to heal is similar tothe time required for fractures to heal. A period of 4 to 6 weeks ofimmobilization is common. Different injuries require different rehabtimes and regimes.

Aspects of the present disclosure are directed to a walking apparatus(e.g., an orthopedic walking boot) with an adjustable length and/orwidth to accommodate a variety of foot sizes and swelling. In an aspectof the prevention disclosure, an orthopedic walking boot may includebilateral struts which connect a base of the orthopedic walking boot toan upper portion of the orthopedic walking boot. The struts may be rigidand provided on either side of the leg. The bilateral struts may be heldonto the limb with strapping systems that encircle at least a portion ofthe limb. In another aspect, the base may be attached to a posteriorpiece which extends from the foot to the back of the leg and calfforming a clamshell configuration. In the clamshell configuration, asingle piece encompasses a portion of the side of the leg (similar tothe bilateral configuration) as well as the rear of the leg. Theorthopedic walking boot may include an adjoining anterior piece thatjoins or overlaps the posterior piece and is held on by a traditionalstrapping system or with one or more mechanical attachment mechanisms.In another aspect, the orthopedic walking boot may comprise a “hybrid”configuration (also referred herein as a “multi-sectioned”configuration). In the hybrid configuration, the base may be attached tothe bilateral struts of the bilateral configuration and also attached aseparate/non-integral posterior element that encompasses the rear of leg(similar to the rear portion of the clamshell). In this manner, thebilateral struts surround the side of the legs while the separateposterior portion encompasses the rear of the leg. Thus, the hybridconfiguration achieves a similar result as the clamshell with multiplesections, hence, “multi-sectioned.”

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the orthopedicwalking boot may be configured such that the portion that receives theuser's foot (e.g., the base portion) extends at a 90° angle or atsubstantially 90° relative to a longitudinal axis of the portion thatreceives the user's leg (e.g., the upper portion). In another aspect,the orthopedic walking boot may include two struts rising from the base.The orthopedic walking boot may further include a soft component withinthe constraints of the struts and on top of the base. The soft componentmay be held by straps.

The orthopedic walking boot may include a base portion that isadjustable in length and/or width, in accordance with one aspect of thepresent disclosure. Traditionally, a hospital, clinic, or orthopedicsupply company have had to stock orthopedic walking apparatuses such aswalking boots and post-operative shoes in variety of sizes toaccommodate users with different foot sizes. Certain foot sizes are morecommon than others, and a hospital, clinic, or orthopedic supply companymay run out of those sizes more quickly causing the stock room tocontain a surplus of certain sizes and a dearth of others.

Furthermore, there is a growing awareness that manufacturing fewerversions of a product can increase revenue for the manufacturer. Forexample, manufacturing a walking apparatus all of one type that canaccommodate all foot sizes can reduce the number of parts and/orequipment required during the manufacturing process, and also reduce theamount of material needed to produce the walking apparatus.

In an effort to reduce the number of sizes that a supplier is requiredto carry and the manufacturer is required to produce, certain aspects ofthe present disclosure include a walking apparatus that is configuredwith an adjustable length and/or width. An adjustable walking apparatuscan ensure that as long as the product is in stock, the majority ofpatients will be able to be fitted with the walking apparatus regardlessof foot length, width, or amount of swelling since each apparatus can bespecifically fitted to an individual patient. Consequently, theadjustable walking apparatus is able to provide a better fit andsupport.

As discussed above, an aspect of the present disclosure includes anorthopedic walking boot with an outer sole that is adjustable in length.FIGS. 1A-1D each illustrate an adjustable orthopedic walking boot 100with an outer sole which may be made up of multiple sections 110, 112and overmolded to the base 102 of the orthopedic walking boot 100. Eachsection of the outer sole 110, 112 may be formed of an elastomericmaterial, and the elastomeric material of the first section 110 may bethe same or different than the elastomeric material of the section 112.The orthopedic walking boot 100 may include a support assembly made upof bilateral struts 104. However, the adjustable orthopedic walking bootmay alternatively have support assemblies consistent with the clamshellor hybrid types discussed above.

FIGS. 1A-1D each illustrate one aspect of the present disclosure inwhich an adjustable orthopedic walking boot 100 with a bilateral struts104 support system includes a base 102 made up of a heel portion 106 andan adjustable forefoot portion 108. FIG. 1A shows the adjustableorthopedic walking boot 100 in a non-extended configuration. The outersole can completely cover the bottom surface of the base 102 and be madeup of a first section 110 and a second section 112. In particular thefirst section 110 of the outer sole can cover the heel portion 106 ofthe base 102, while the second section 112 of the outer sole can coverthe forefoot portion 108 of the base 102. As seen in the illustration,the second section 112 of the outer sole can remain behind the firstsection 110 of the outer sole when the forefoot portion 108 is in anon-extended position with respect to the heel portion 106. Moreover,the outer sole may extend up the sides of the perimeter of the walkerbase 102 to maximize surface contact between the outer sole and the base102. In an aspect, the outer sole may comprise a thermoplastic elastomerbonded by overmolding to the base 102. The base 102 may comprise a rigidpolypropylene material. Alternatively, a number of different materialpairs may be bonded in a similar manner, as long as they are chemicallyand thermally compatible. The bottom surface of both of the firstsection 110 and the second section 112 of the outer sole may includetread formed during the overmolding process. Various tread patterns maybe applied by using a series of inserts in the overmold tool, where eachinsert is designed aesthetically or otherwise, to provide a differentappearance of the tread while maintaining the desired physicalproperties, e.g., water channeling, grip on slippery surfaces, etc.Furthermore, the longitudinal axis of the outer sole may be defined asthe axis along the direction from the heel of the outer sole to thetoe/forefoot of the outer sole.

FIG. 1B shows a similar adjustable orthopedic walking boot 100 asillustrated in FIG. 1A, but with the adjustable orthopedic walking boot100 further including a soft component 122 positioned within theconstraints of the struts 104 and on top of the base 102 of the walkingboot. The soft component 120 may be held in position by a plurality ofstraps 122 that operatively couple to the base 102 with coupling members124. Alternatively, the straps 122 can operatively couple to the base102 and the struts 104 using a hook-and-eye type fastener, an adhesive,or a tying member. Furthermore, the soft component can include a gap 126proximal to the forward most position of the forefoot portion 108 thatallows for air-flow to the user's toes and/or feet while in the softcomponent 120. Alternately, the soft component 120 can include beconfigured so that there is no gap 126, but instead has a closed endsurface that can provides additional protection to a user's toes.

FIG. 1C illustrates the adjustable walking boot of FIG. 1A but in theextended position. More specifically, the forefoot portion 108 isillustrated as being adjusted from a first position (e.g., non-extendedposition) to a second position (e.g., extended position) with respect tothe heel portion 106. When the forefoot portion 108 is adjusted or movedfrom the first position to the second position, a section 114 of thesecond portion 112 of the outer sole moves from behind the first portion110 of the outer sole thereby effectively extending the length of theouter sole from a first length (e.g., non-extended position) to a secondlength (e.g., extended position). The adjustment is illustrated by arrow116 and can create a separation gap 118 between the forefoot potion 108and the heel portion 106 on an inner surface of the walking boot 100.Although not illustrated, the exposed section 114 may include a lip orterraced portion that is configured to mate with a forward most edge ofthe first portion 110 of the outer sole to provide a smooth transitionbetween the exposed section 114 of the second portion 112 of the outersole and the first portion 110 of the outer sole. Such a configurationcan provide an even walking surface for the user, thereby increasing thestability of the walking boot 100. Conversely, when the forefoot potion108 is adjusted from the extended position back to the non-extendedposition, the exposed section 114 of the second portion 112 of the outersole retracts behind the first portion 110 of the outer sole therebyeffectively shortening the length of the outer sole.

FIG. 1D shows the same adjustable walking boot with the soft component122 as depicted in FIG. 1B but with the forefoot portion 108 in theextended position as illustrated in FIG. 1C.

FIGS. 2A-2D each illustrate one aspect of the present disclosure inwhich an adjustable orthopedic walking boot 200 includes a clamshellsupport 204 and a base 202 made up of a heel portion 206 and anadjustable forefoot portion 208. FIG. 2A depicts the adjustableorthopedic walking boot 200 in a non-extended configuration. The outersole can completely cover the bottom surface of the base 202 and be madeup of a first section 210 and a second section 212. In particular thefirst section 210 of the outer sole can cover the heel portion 206 ofthe base, while the second section 212 of the outer sole can cover theforefoot portion 208 of the base 202. As seen in the illustration, thesecond section 212 of the outer sole can remain behind the first section210 of the outer sole when the forefoot portion 208 is in a non-extendedposition with respect to the heel portion 206. Moreover, the outer solemay extend up the sides of the perimeter of the walker base 202 tomaximize surface contact between the outer sole and the base 202. In anaspect, the outer sole may comprise a thermoplastic elastomer bonded byovermolding to the base 202. The base 202 may comprise a rigidpolypropylene material. Alternatively, a number of different materialpairs may be bonded in a similar manner, as long as they are chemicallyand thermally compatible. The bottom surface of both of the firstsection 210 and the second section 212 of the outer sole may includetread formed during the overmolding process. Various tread patterns maybe applied by using a series of inserts in the overmold tool, where eachinsert is designed aesthetically or otherwise, to provide a differentappearance of the tread while maintaining the desired physicalproperties, e.g., water channeling, grip on slippery surfaces, etc.Furthermore, the longitudinal axis of the outer sole may be defined asthe axis along the direction from the heel of the outer sole to thetoe/forefoot of the outer sole.

FIG. 2B shows a similar adjustable orthopedic walking boot 200 asillustrated in FIG. 2A, but with the adjustable orthopedic walking boot200 further including a soft component 220 positioned within theconstraints of the clamshell support 204 and on top of the base 102 ofthe walking boot. FIG. 2B further illustrates anterior plates 222 a, 222b, 222 c that are positioned over the soft component 220 and can be usedto provide additional protection/support to the anterior portion of auser's foot and/or leg when in the walking boot 200. Although threeanterior plates are depicted in FIGS. 2B and 2C, it is understood thatmore or fewer anterior pieces can be used without departing from thescope of the present disclosure. The soft component 220 and anteriorplates 222 a, 222 b, 222 c can be configured such that a gap 226 can beformed proximal to the forward-most position of the forefoot portion 208which can allow for air-flow to the user's toes and/or feet while in thesoft component 220 and covered with the anterior plates 222 a, 222 b,222 c.

The soft component 220 and anterior plates 222 a, 222 b, 222 c may beheld in position by a plurality of straps 228, as illustrated in FIG.2C, that operatively couple to the base 202 with coupling members 230.The straps 228 can operatively couple to the base 202 and the clamshellsupport 204 using a hook-and-eye type fastener, an adhesive, a tyingmember, or any other type of coupling mechanism as understood by one ofordinary skill in the art.

FIG. 2D illustrates the adjustable walking boot of FIG. 2A but depictedin the extended position. More specifically, the forefoot portion 208 isillustrated as being adjusted from a first position (e.g., non-extendedposition) to a second position (e.g., extended position) with respect tothe heel portion 206. When the forefoot portion 208 is adjusted or movedfrom the first position to the second position, a section 214 of thesecond portion 212 of the outer sole moves from behind the first portion210 of the outer sole thereby effectively extending the length of theouter sole from a first length (e.g., non-extended position) to a secondlength (e.g., extended position). The adjustment is illustrated by arrow216 and can create a separation gap 218 between the forefoot potion 208and the heel portion 206 on an inner surface of the walking boot 200.Although not illustrated, the exposed section 214 may include a lip orterraced portion that is configured to mate with a forward most edge ofthe first portion 210 of the outer sole to provide a smooth transitionbetween the exposed section 214 of the second portion 212 of the outersole and the first portion 210 of the outer sole. Such a configurationcan provide an even walking surface for a user, thereby increasing thestability of the walking boot 200. Conversely, when the forefoot potion208 is adjusted from the extended position back to the non-extendedposition, the exposed section 214 of the second portion 212 of the outersole retracts behind the first portion 210 of the outer sole therebyeffectively shortening the length of the outer sole.

FIG. 2E shows the adjustable walking boot 200 with the soft component220 and anterior plates 222 a, 222 b, 222 c illustrated in FIG. 2B butdepicted with the forefoot portion 208 in the extended position asillustrated in FIG. 2D. FIG. 2F depicts shows the adjustable walkingboot 200 with straps 228 and coupling members 230 as depicted in FIG. 2Cbut with the forefoot portion 208 in the extended position as seen inFIG. 2D.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate one aspect of the present disclosure in whichan adjustable orthopedic walking boot 300 with a bilateral strut 304support system that can include a base 302 made up of a heel portion 306and an adjustable forefoot portion 308. FIG. 3A shows the adjustableorthopedic walking boot 300 in a non-extended configuration. The outersole can completely cover the bottom surface of the base 302 and be madeup of a first section 310 and a second section 312. In particular thefirst section 310 of the outer sole can cover the heel portion 306 ofthe base, while the second section 312 of the outer sole can cover theforefoot portion 308 of the base 302. As seen in the FIG. 3A, the entiresecond section 312 of the outer sole does not remain behind the firstsection 310 of the outer sole when the forefoot portion 308 is in anon-extended position with respect to the heel portion 306, as depictedin FIG. 1A. Instead, in the non-extended position, a break 314 in theouter sole proximal to a midsection of the base 302 can allow the firstsection 310 and at least a portion of the second section 312 of theouter sole to form the walking surface of the walking boot 300. Althoughthe break 314 is illustrated as being near a midsection of the base 302,it is understood that the break 314 can be positioned anywhere along thelongitudinal axis of the base 302 without departing from the scope ofthe present disclosure. Moreover, the outer sole may extend up the sidesof the perimeter of the walker base 302 to maximize surface contactbetween the outer sole and the base 302. In an aspect, the outer solemay comprise a thermoplastic elastomer bonded by overmolding to the base302. The base 302 may comprise a rigid polypropylene material.Alternatively, a number of different material pairs may be bonded in asimilar manner, as long as they are chemically and thermally compatible.The bottom surface of both of the first section 310 and the secondsection 312 of the outer sole may include tread formed during theovermolding process. Various tread patterns may be applied by using aseries of inserts in the overmold tool, where each insert is designedaesthetically or otherwise, to provide a different appearance of thetread while maintaining the desired physical properties, e.g., waterchanneling, grip on slippery surfaces, etc. Furthermore, thelongitudinal axis of the outer sole may be defined as the axis along thedirection from the heel of the outer sole to the toe/forefoot of theouter sole.

FIG. 3B illustrates the adjustable walking boot 300 of FIG. 3A butdepicted in the extended position. More specifically, the forefootportion 308 is illustrated as being adjusted from a first position(e.g., non-extended position) to a second position (e.g., extendedposition) with respect to the heel portion 306. When the forefootportion 308 is adjusted or moved from the first position to the secondposition, a section 316 of the second portion 312 of the outer solemoves from behind the first portion 310 of the outer sole therebyeffectively extending the length of the outer sole from a first length(e.g., non-extended position) to a second length (e.g., extendedposition). The adjustment is illustrated by arrow 318 and can createseparation gap 320 between the forefoot potion 308 and the heel portion306 on an inner surface of the walking boot 300. Although notillustrated, the exposed section 316 may include a lip or terracedportion that is configured to mate with a forward most edge of the firstportion 310 of the outer sole to provide a smooth transition between theexposed section 314 of the second portion 312 of the outer sole and thefirst portion 310 of the outer sole. Such a configuration can provide aneven walking surface for a user, thereby increasing the stability of thewalking boot 300. Conversely, when the forefoot potion 308 is adjustedfrom the extended position back to the non-extended position, theexposed section 316 of the second portion 312 of the outer sole retractsbehind the first portion 310 of the outer sole thereby effectivelyshortening the length of the outer sole.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate one aspect of the present disclosure in which anadjustable orthopedic walking boot 400 includes a clamshell support 404and a base 402 made up of a heel portion 406 and an adjustable forefootportion 408. FIG. 4A shows the adjustable orthopedic walking boot 400 ina non-extended configuration. The outer sole can completely cover thebottom surface of the base 402 and be made up of a first section 410 anda second section 412. In particular the first section 410 of the outersole can cover the heel portion 406 of the base 402, while the secondsection 412 of the outer sole can cover the forefoot portion 408 of thebase 402. As seen in the FIG. 4A, the entire second section 412 of theouter sole does not remain behind the first section 410 of the outersole when the forefoot portion 408 is in a non-extended position withrespect to the heel portion 406, as depicted in FIG. 2A. Instead, in thenon-extended position, a break 414 in the outer sole proximal to amidsection of the base 402 can allow the first section 410 and at leasta portion of the second section 412 of the outer sole to form thewalking surface of the walking boot 400. Although the break 414 isillustrated as being near a midsection of the base 402, it is understoodthat the break 414 can be positioned anywhere along the longitudinalaxis of the base 402 without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure. Moreover, the outer sole may extend up the sides of theperimeter of the walker base 402 to maximize surface contact between theouter sole and the base 402. In an aspect, the outer sole may comprise athermoplastic elastomer bonded by overmolding to the base 402. The base402 may comprise a rigid polypropylene material. Alternatively, a numberof different material pairs may be bonded in a similar manner, as longas they are chemically and thermally compatible. The bottom surface ofboth of the first section 410 and the second section 412 of the outersole may include tread formed during the overmolding process. Varioustread patterns may be applied by using a series of inserts in theovermold tool, where each insert is designed aesthetically or otherwise,to provide a different appearance of the tread while maintaining thedesired physical properties, e.g., water channeling, grip on slipperysurfaces, etc. Furthermore, the longitudinal axis of the outer sole maybe defined as the axis along the direction from the heel of the outersole to the toe/forefoot of the outer sole.

FIG. 4B shows a similar adjustable orthopedic walking boot 400 asillustrated in FIG. 4A, but with the adjustable orthopedic walking boot400 further including anterior plates 422 a, 422 b, 422 c that can beused to provide additional protection/support to the anterior portion ofa user's foot and/or leg when in the walking boot 400. Although threeanterior plates are depicted in FIG. 4B, it is understood that more orfewer anterior pieces can be used without departing from the scope ofthe present disclosure. Furthermore, although a soft component is notdepicted in FIG. 4B, it is understood that a soft component with orwithout a pneumatic pumping system may be worn by a user and positionedbetween the clamshell support 404 and the anterior plates 422 a, 422 b,422 c without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Theanterior plates 422 a, 422 b, 422 c can be configured such that a gap426 can be formed proximal to the forward-most position of the forefootportion 408 which can allow for air-flow to the user's toes and/or feetwhile covered with the anterior plates 422 a, 422 b, 422 c. Furthermore,the walking boot 400 can include a pneumatic pumping system thatincludes one or more bladders (not shown) that can be filled with air ordeflated upon actuation of button 424. When filled, the bladders of thepneumatic pumping system can provide addition support to the user's leg.

A soft component (not shown) and anterior plates 422 a, 422 b, 422 c maybe held in position by a plurality of straps (not shown), as illustratedin FIG. 2C, that can operatively couple to the base 402 with couplingmembers (not shown). The straps can operatively couple to the base 402and the clamshell support 404 using a hook-and-eye type fastener, anadhesive, a tying member, or any other type of coupling mechanism asunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

FIG. 4C illustrates the adjustable walking boot 400 of FIG. 4A but inthe extended position. More specifically, the forefoot portion 408 isillustrated as being adjusted from a first position (e.g., non-extendedposition) to a second position (e.g., extended position) with respect tothe heel portion 406. When the forefoot portion 408 is adjusted or movedfrom the first position to the second position, a section 416 of thesecond portion 412 of the outer sole moves from behind the first portion410 of the outer sole thereby effectively extending the length of theouter sole from a first length (e.g., non-extended position) to a secondlength (e.g., extended position). The adjustment is illustrated by arrow418 and can create separation gap 420 between the forefoot potion 308and the heel portion 306 on an inner surface of the walking boot 400.Although not illustrated, the exposed section 416 may include a lip orterraced portion that is configured to mate with a forward most edge ofthe first portion 410 of the outer sole to provide a smooth transitionbetween the exposed section 414 of the second portion 412 of the outersole and the first portion 410 of the outer sole. Such a configurationcan provide an even walking surface for a user, thereby increasing thestability of the walking boot 400. Conversely, when the forefoot potion408 is adjusted from the extended position back to the non-extendedposition, the exposed section 416 of the second portion 412 of the outersole retracts behind the first portion 410 of the outer sole therebyeffectively shortening the length of the outer sole.

FIG. 4D illustrates the adjustable walking boot 400 with the anteriorplates 422 a, 422 b, 422 c depicted in FIG. 4B but with the forefootportion 408 in the extended position as illustrated in FIG. 4C.

FIG. 5A illustrates a bottom surface view of an adjustable walking boot500 (such as those depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B and 4A-4B where the portionof the tread/sole formed on the forefoot portion 504 form part of thewalking surface of the boot when in the non-extended position) as theforefoot portion 504 is adjusted in a direction 520 to extend the lengthof the outer sole to accommodate a user with a larger foot size than thewalking boot 500 provides when in the non-extended position. Morespecifically, FIG. 5A depicts one aspect in which the adjustable walkingboots of the present disclosure are able to maintain a continuous treadalong an entire length of the longitudinal axis of the outer sole whenthe adjustable walking boot is adjusted from a shorter length 522 to alarger length 524 to accommodate a larger foot size. As seen in FIG. 5A,the heel portion 502 can be formed with fingers 508 that can act asextensions of the first tread surface 510, and are configured totraverse a break 514 between the first tread surface 510 and the secondtread surface 512, and completely fill in the channels 506 formed in thesecond tread surface 512 when the forefoot portion 504 is in thenon-extended position. The forefoot portion 508 can also includesextension columns 526 of the second tread surface 512 which are formedin between the channels 506, as depicted in FIG. 5A. The extensioncolumns 526 of the second tread surface 512 include extension sections516 that can be positioned behind or on top of (e.g., overlap) the firsttread surface 510 when the walking boot 500 is in the non-extendedposition. However, when the forefoot portion 504 is adjusted to theextended position, the fingers 508 of the first tread surface 510 canpull away from the channels in the second tread surface 512 forming gapsbetween the first tread surface 510 and the second tread surface 512.Meanwhile, the extension sections 516 of the extension columns 526 ofthe second tread surface 512 are exposed when the forefoot portion 504is adjusted to the extended position which allows for a continuous treadsurface along the entire length of the outer sole at least in theregions of the extension columns 526 which traverse the break 514between the first tread surface 510 and the second tread surface 512.Having a continuous treaded surface that traverses the entire length ofthe outer sole when the walking boot 500 is in an extended position canprovide the user with a more stable walking surface reducing the risk ofslipping and injury.

According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the extensioncolumns 526 of the second tread surface 512 do not have to include theextension sections 516 that overlap the first tread surface 510. In sucha scenario, when the forefoot portion 504 is adjusted to the extendedposition there may be additional gaps between the extension columns 526and first tread surface 510 at the break 514. However, there can stillbe provided a substantially continuous treaded surface along thelongitudinal axis of the outer sole, which can provide a stable walkingsurface for the user. Moreover, a predetermined radius of curvature ofthe outer sole of the walking boot 500 can be maintained when theforefoot portion 504 is adjusted from the non-extended position to theextended position, further details regarding the radius of curvature areprovided below with respect to FIG. 5B.

FIG. 5B illustrates a bottom surface view of an adjustable walking boot500 (such as those depicted in FIGS. 3A-3B and 4A-4B) in which theforefoot portion 504 is adjusted in a direction 520 to extend the lengthof the outer sole to accommodate a user with a larger foot size. Morespecifically, FIG. 5B depicts manners in which the adjustable walkingboots of the present disclosure are able to maintain a fixed radius ofcurvature R_(f) when the length of adjustable walking boot is adjustedfrom a shorter length to a larger length.

FIG. 5B is depicted as including a midfoot portion 528 that isadjustable with respect to the heel portion 502 and/or the forefootportion 504. Each of the heel portion 502, the midfoot portion 528, andthe forefoot portion 504 include respective channels 506 a, 506 b, 506 cand fingers 508 a, 508 b, 508 c which are similarly structured as thosedetailed above with respect to FIG. 5A. In addition, the fingers 508 a,508 b, 508 c can act as extension column including (or not) includingextension sections (illustrated in FIG. 5A) that overlap adjacent treadsurface on one or more of the heel portion 502, the midfoot portion 528,and/or the forefoot portion 508 c, and which traverse one or more of thebreaks 514 b located therebetween.

As illustrated in FIG. 5B, each of the heel portion 502, the midfootportion 528, and the forefoot portion 504 is configured with arespective radius of curvature R₁, R₂, and R₃ that when combined providethe outer sole with an overall radius of curvature R_(f). Each of theheel portion 502, the midfoot portion 528, and the forefoot portion 504can be configured such that regardless of being in the non-extendedposition or one or more extended positions the overall radius ofcurvature is substantially maintained at R_(f). Having a non-zero R_(f)for the overall outer sole can provide the user with a curved bottomboot that can enable easier mobility for the user.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate an adjustable orthopedic and/orpost-operative walking shoe 600, according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure, that can include a rigid, semi-rigid, or soft back support604, a rigid, semi-rigid, or soft dorsal forefoot support 616 (e.g.,made of a breathable material and including attachment straps couplableto one another), and/or ankle support strap 618. FIG. 6A shows theadjustable walking shoe 600 in a non-extended configuration. The outersole can completely cover the bottom surface of the base 602 and be madeup of a first section 610 and a second section 612. In particular, thefirst section 610 of the outer sole can cover the heel portion 606 ofthe base 602, while the second section 612 of the outer sole can coverthe forefoot portion 608 of the base 602. As seen in the FIG. 6A, theentire second section 612 of the outer sole does not remain behind thefirst section 610 of the outer sole when the forefoot portion 608 is ina non-extended position with respect to the heel portion 606, asdepicted in FIG. 1A. Instead, in the non-extended position, a break 614in the outer sole proximal to a midsection of the base 602 can allow thefirst section 610 and at least a portion of the second section 612 ofthe outer sole to form the walking surface of the walking boot 600.Although the break 614 is illustrated as being near a midsection of thebase 602, it is understood that the break 614 can be positioned anywherealong the longitudinal axis of the base 602 without departing from thescope of the present disclosure. Moreover, the outer sole may extend upthe sides of the perimeter of the walker base 602 to maximize surfacecontact between the outer sole and the base 602, in a similar mannerdescribed with respect to FIG. 3A.

FIG. 6B illustrates the adjustable walking boot 600 depicted FIG. 6A butin the extended position. More specifically, the forefoot portion 608 isillustrated as being adjusted from a first position (e.g., non-extendedposition) to a second position (e.g., extended position) with respect tothe heel portion 606. When the forefoot portion 608 is adjusted or movedfrom the first position to the second position, sections 620 a, 620 b ofthe second portion 612 of the outer sole extend from behind the secondportion 612 of the outer sole thereby effectively extending the lengthof the outer sole from a first length (e.g., non-extended position) to asecond length (e.g., extended position) providing a smooth interfacebetween the second portion 612 of the outer sole and the extensionsections 620 a, 620 b. As seen in FIG. 6B, toe section 620 b can becoupled to extension section 620 a with member 622 that is containedwithin toe section 620 b. Alternately, toe section 620 b can be coupledto the extension section 620 b using an adhesive, a screw, a snap fitconfiguration, and any other coupling mechanism as understood by one ofordinary skill in the art. Still further, toe section 620 b andextension section 620 a can be formed as a unitary structure withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. Although notillustrated, the exposed section 620 a may include a lip or terracedportion that is configured to mate with a forward most edge of thesecond portion 612 of the outer sole to provide a smooth transitionbetween the exposed section 620 a of the second portion 612 of the outersole and the second portion 612 of the outer sole. Such a configurationcan provide an even walking surface for a user, thereby increasing thestability of the walking boot 600. Conversely, when the forefoot potion68 is adjusted from the extended position back to the non-extendedposition, the exposed section 620 a and the toe portion 620 b of thesecond portion 612 of the outer sole retracts at least partially behindthe second portion 612 of the outer sole thereby effectively shorteningthe length of the outer sole.

FIGS. 7A-7E illustrate an adjustable orthopedic and/or post-operativesoft walking shoe 700 that can include a rigid, semi-rigid, or soft backsupport 704 (e.g., made of a breathable material and includingattachment straps couplable to one another), a rigid, semi-rigid, orsoft dorsal forefoot support 712 (e.g., made of a breathable materialand including attachment straps couplable to one another), and/or anklesupport strap 714. FIG. 7A shows the adjustable walking shoe 700 in anon-extended configuration. The outer sole can completely cover thebottom surface of the base 702 and be made up of a unitary first section710 when the walking shoe 700 is in the non-extended position. Inparticular, the unitary first section 710 of the outer sole can coverthe heel portion 706 of the base 702 and the forefoot portion 708 of thebase 702 when in the non-extended position. In addition, the outer solemay extend up the sides of the perimeter of the walker base 702 tomaximize surface contact between the outer sole and the base 702, in asimilar manner described with respect to FIG. 3A. FIG. 7B shows a sideprofile of the soft walking boot 700 illustrated in FIG. 7A in thenon-extended position.

FIG. 7C illustrates the adjustable walking boot 700 depicted in FIG. 7Abut in the extended position. More specifically, the forefoot portion708 is illustrated as being extended from a first position (e.g.,non-extended position) to a second position (e.g., extended position)with respect to the heel portion 706. When the forefoot portion 708 isadjusted or moved from the first position to the second position, theforefoot portion 708 extends out of the dorsal forefoot support 712 andpast a forward-most edge of the unitary first section 710. The forefootportion 708 extending past the forward-most edge of the unitary firstsection 710 can include a second section (not shown) of the outer solethat provides an extended walking surface when the forefoot portion 708extends past the unitary first section 710. FIGS. 7D-7E show a sideprofile and a top angled view of the soft walking boot 700 illustratedin FIG. 7C in the extended position.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate two different views of a post operative shoeincluding an actuation mechanism that can be configured to facilitatethe adjustment of the forefoot portion from the non-extend position, inaccordance with one aspect of the present disclosure. Although theactuation mechanism is depicted as being included in a post-operativeshoe 800, it is understood that the actuation mechanism detailed belowwith respect to FIGS. 8A and 8B can be included in any number ofdifferent types of walking apparatus such as those illustrated in allthe other figures included in the present disclosure. For example, thetypes of walking apparatuses that can include the actuation memberillustrated in FIG. 8A can include an open-toe orthopedic walking boot,a closed-toe orthopedic walking boot, an orthopedic walking bootincluding bilateral struts, an orthopedic walking boot including aclamshell configuration, a soft component of an orthopedic walking boot,a post-operative shoe, a clinical walker, and a hospital walker, just toname a few.

As seen in FIG. 8A, the actuation mechanism 804 can be operativelycoupled to the base 802 of a walking apparatus 800. The actuationmechanism can include a cantilever member 806 that is made up of aspring loaded end 808 that is at least partially fixed to a portion ofthe underside of the base 802 and an unfixed end 810 that can beconfigured to pivot when an actuation force is applied thereto. Asfurther illustrated in FIG. 8A, a pair of arms 810 can be operativelycoupled at a predetermined angle to the cantilever member 806. When anactuation force of a sufficient amount is applied to the unfixed end 810of the cantilever member 806, the pair of arms 812 can clear the heightof ridges 814, which allows the base plate 818 and the cantilever memberto move freely along tracks 816. This movement of the base plate 818 canbe configured to enable the adjustment of the forefoot portion of thebase from a first position to a second different position therebyextending or shortening the length of the walking apparatus 800. Oncethe forefoot portion has been adjusted to a desired position, theactuation force can be removed from the unfixed end 810 of thecantilever member 806, which can allow the pair of arms 812 to relaxback down between ridges 814. This can disenable movement of theforefoot portion until another actuation force is applied to thecantilever member.

As further illustrated in FIG. 8A, the base plate 818 can be operativelycoupled to dorsal toe portions 820 and configured to enable anadjustment of the dorsal toe portions and the forefoot portion at thesame time. By way of example, the tracks 816 can be formed at an anglewith respect to one another which can enable a widening or a narrowingof the dorsal toe portions 820 as the forefoot portion is adjusted fromthe first position to the second position. FIG. 8B is a top view of theadjustable walking apparatus 800 which illustrates an aperture 824 inthe inner sole, which allows access to the unfixed end 810 of thecantilever 806 so that an actuation force can be applied thereto toadjust the length of the walking apparatus 800.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate two different views of a post operative shoe900 including an actuation mechanism that can be configured tofacilitate the adjustment of the forefoot portion from the non-extendposition, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure.Although the actuation mechanism is depicted as being included in apost-operative shoe 900, it is understood that the actuation mechanismdetailed below with respect to FIGS. 9A and 9B can be included in anynumber of different types of walking apparatus such as those illustratedin all the other figures included in the present disclosure. Forexample, the types of walking apparatuses that can include the actuationmember illustrated in FIG. 9A can include an open-toe orthopedic walkingboot, a closed-toe orthopedic walking boot, an orthopedic walking bootincluding bilateral struts, an orthopedic walking boot including aclamshell configuration, a soft component of an orthopedic walking boot,a post-operative shoe, a clinical walker, and a hospital walker, just toname a few.

As seen in FIG. 9A, the actuation mechanism can be operatively coupledto the base 902 of a walking apparatus 900. The actuation mechanism caninclude an actuator button 904 operatively coupled to a spring 906 and aboss member 908 operatively coupled to the forefoot portion 920 of thebase 902 that is configured to engage with ridges 912 operativelycoupled to the heel portion 922 of the base 902. The ridges 912 are inan opposing configuration with respect to the boss member 908 and engagethe boss member 908 such that the forefoot portion 920 is held in afixed position with respect to the heel portion 922. However, when aforce of a predetermined amount is applied to the actuator button 904,the preloaded spring 906 decompresses which can cause an upward movementof the spring 904 that forces the boss 908 out of engagement from theridges 912, thereby enabling movement of the forefoot portion 920 withrespect to the heel portion 922. The forefoot portion 920 can beoperatively coupled to tracks 918 using a male slide member 914 and afemale slide member 916. This movement can result in an extension of thelength of the walking apparatus 900.

FIG. 9B is a side view of the adjustable walking apparatus 900 whichillustrates the actuator button 904 positioned on a side portion of thewalking apparatus. As appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art,the actuator button can be positioned anywhere on the walking apparatus900 that enables ease of use and comfort for the user. In addition,there may be a single actuator button 904 or a plurality of actuatorbuttons that can be actuated simultaneously or individually withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure.

As illustrated in FIG. 9B, a dorsal toe portion 924 is depicted as beingintegrally formed with the forefoot portion 920 and which moves with theforefoot portion 920 when the actuator button 904 is actuated. However,as also understood, the dorsal toe portion 924 can include separatecomponents operatively coupled to the male slide 914 and the femaleslide 916 such that the dorsal toe portions 924 can also move along withthe forefoot portion 920 when they are not integrally formed therewith.

Furthermore, the tracks 918 can be formed at an angle with respect toone another which can enable a widening or a narrowing of the dorsal toeportions as the forefoot portion 920 is adjusted from the first positionto the second position.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate adjustable walking boots configured forlengthwise and widthwise adjustment. More specifically, FIG. 10A depictsan adjustable walking boot 1000 including a clamshell support structure1004 operatively coupled to a base 1002. The base 1002 can include aheel portion 1006 and a forefoot portion 1008. An outer sole of thewalking boot 1000 can be made up of a first section 1010 which coversthe heel portion 1006 of the base 1002, and a second section 1012 thatcovers the forefoot portion 1008 of the base 1002. The walking boot 1000illustrated in FIG. 10A can further include dorsal forefoot components1016 a, 1016 b, 1016 c, 1016 d that are configured to protect the footand ankle of a user. A tapered side portion 1018 that is operativelycoupled to the heel portion is configured to engage with the dorsalforefoot components 1016 a, 1016 b, 1016 c, 1016 d and hold them in afixed position when the forefoot portion 1008 is in a fixed positionrelative to the heel portion 1006. The dorsal forefoot components 1016a, 1016 b, 1016 c, 1016 d can provide a gap 1020 in the toe portion ofthe walking boot 1000 to allow air flow into the boot. An actuationmechanism 1014 similar to that illustrated in FIGS. 9A and 9B can beincluded in the base 1002, which can enable the adjustment of theforefoot portion 1008 and the dorsal forefoot components 1016 a, 1016 b,1016 c, 1016 d from a first position to a second position with respectto the heel portion 1006. The geometry of the tapered side portion 1018is configured to enable an adjustment in the width of the dorsalforefoot components 1016 a, 1016 b, 1016 c, 1016 d when the forefootportion is moved from a first position to a second position by enablingan expansion or compression of the dorsal forefoot components 1016 a,1016 b, 1016 c, 1016 d, as the components move past or retract intocontact with the outer contact point of the tapered side portion 1018.

FIG. 10B is directed to a similar adjustable walking boot 1000 asdepicted in FIG. 10A, except that the dorsal forefoot components 1016 a,1016 b, 1016 c, 1016 d further include toe closure component 1022 thatprovides additional protection to the toe region of the user's foot.

FIGS. 11A and 11B depict an adjustable walking boot 1100 includingdorsal forefoot components and a toe closure component similar to thosedescribed with respect to FIGS. 10A and 10B. However, adjustable walkingboot 1100 illustrated in FIGS. 11A and 11B is enable a widening ornarrowing of the dorsal forefoot components 1116 a, 1116 b using asplit-toe configuration. The dorsal forefoot components 1116 a, 1116 bcan be configured to remain in a fixed position when the forefootportion is fixed relative to the heel portion without requiring thetapered side portion 1018 illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B.

FIG. 12 illustrates one aspect of the present disclosure in which aforefoot portion 1204 of a base 1200 of a walking apparatus includes aleft forefoot portion 1204 a and a right forefoot portion 1204 b thatinclude an overlapping region 1208 proximal to the toe of the walkingapparatus. A cam 1206 accessible from the inner sole or side portion ofthe base, for example, is configured to adjust a width of the forefootportion 1204 when actuated. For example, the cam 1206 can include anaperture 1208 that is configured to receive a tool that enables arotation of the cam 1206. The cam 1206 is shaped such that when rotated,the left forefoot portion 1204 a and the right forefoot portion 1204 bare adjusted to respective expanded positions 1204 c and 1204 d.Conversely, the cam 1206 can be actuated to narrow the width of the toein a similar manner described above. Moreover, the width of the walkingapparatus can be adjusted independently of the length of the walkingapparatus according to certain aspects of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate adjustable walking boots 1300 in accordancewith certain aspects of the disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 13Adepicts an adjustable walking boot 1300 that includes multiple extensionmembers 1306 that are each attached to the inner sole 1304 of thewalking boot with a hinge member 1308. When the length of the walkingboot needs to be adjusted, the extension portions 1306 can be folded outto provide the required extra length. Although not shown, a lockingmechanism can be used to ensure that the extension portions 1306 arelocked into place once they are folded out. Furthermore, each of theextension members 1306 can be configured with a tread or pad 1310 toprovide a stable surface on which the user can safely use as a walkingsurface. FIG. 13B depicts an adjustable walking boot 1300 that includesa single extension member 1312 attached with a hinge 1308 to the innersole 1304 of the boot. The single extension member 1312 can be lockedinto position and configured with a single or multiple treads or pads1310 to provide a stable surface on which the user can use as a walkingsurface. Although three rectangular extension members 1306 areillustrated in FIG. 13A and a single fold out member with a tooth-likeedge is illustrate in FIG. 13B, the fold out extension member(s) 1306can take on any geometry, size, or quantity without departing from thescope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 depicts an assembly kit configured to provide an adjustablewalking boot 1400 when assembled. The assembly kit includes a base 1402that can be made up of a support structure 1404 (e.g., bilateral strutsor a clamshell configuration) and a heel portion 1406. The base 1402includes one or more channels 1410 configured to receive extensionportion(s) 1412 of the forefoot component 1408 of the assembly kit. Theextension portions 1412 can include any geometry and/or size and areconfigured to provide stability and support along a longitudinal axis ofthe assembled walking boot 1400. The assembly kit can include multipleforefoot components 1408 each of a different length to accommodate avariety of foot sizes.

FIG. 15 illustrates a method of adjusting a length of a walkingapparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure. Forexample, a first user can be enabled to adjust a one or morecharacteristics of the walking apparatus such as a length and/or widthto conform to a foot size a second user. The first user can include adoctor, a physician's assistant, a nurse, or a home healthcare working,just to name a few. The second user may a patient who does not haveaccess rights to the mechanism that enables widening and/or lengtheningof the walking apparatus. The first user can be enabled to adjust thelength and/or length of the walking apparatus by being provided with anactuation tool such as a key, a wrench or a screwdriver that providesaccess to an actuation mechanism inside of the walking apparatus thatvaries its length and or width. The second user in one aspect of thepresent disclosure is not access to the actuation tool and thus is notenabled to adjust the length and/or width of the walking apparatus. Whenthe length and or width of the walking apparatus is adjusted, in oneaspect of the present disclosure, a predetermined radius of curvature ofthe outer sole of the walking apparatus can be maintained.

FIGS. 16A-16F illustrate various configurations of an outer sole of anadjustable walking apparatus according to certain aspects of thedisclosure. The configurations depicted in FIGS. 16A-16F can beconfigured for any of the adjustable walking apparatuses describedabove, and can include an outer sole made up of a plurality ofindividual sections that are operatively coupled to one another, or astretchable unitary structure that conforms to plurality of differentlengths and widths.

It is understood, that any of the aspects illustrated, depicted, ordescribed in the present disclosure, including in the figures, can becombined and/or used with any other aspect illustrated, depicted, ordescribed in the present disclosure, including the figures. For example,each of the aspects set forth in the figures and/or described in thedisclosure can be used in or combined with an open-toe orthopedicwalking boot, a closed-toe orthopedic walking boot, an orthopedicwalking boot including bilateral struts, an orthopedic walking bootincluding a clamshell configuration, a soft component of an orthopedicwalking boot, a post-operative shoe (e.g., a shoe with a stiff base thatcan be worn on either the left foot or the right foot that can enable apatient to walk without reinjuring the toe(s) and/or foot), a clinicalwalker, and a hospital walker, just to name a few. Furthermore, it isunderstood that the length and/or width of a walking apparatus providedby the present disclosure can be adjusted to a plurality of positions toaccommodate a plurality of foot sizes without departing from the spiritof the present disclosure. The scope of the present disclosure furtherincludes that the length and/or the width of a walking apparatusprovided by the present disclosure can be adjusted at the forefootcomponent, the midfoot component, and/or the heel component eitherindependently or in an interconnected manner without departing from thespirit of the present disclosure.

The claims are not intended to be limited to the various aspects of thisdisclosure, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with thelanguage of the claims. It is noted that specific illustrativeembodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the drawings anddescribed in detail hereinabove. It is to be understood that variouschanges and modifications may be made without departing from the spiritand scope of the disclosure. All structural and functional equivalentsto the elements of the various aspects described throughout thisdisclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinaryskill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and areintended to be encompassed by the claims. Moreover, nothing disclosedherein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whethersuch disclosure is explicitly recited in the claims. No claim element isto be construed under the provisions of 35 U.S.C. §112, sixth paragraph,unless the element is expressly recited using the phrase “means for” or,in the case of a method claim, the element is recited using the phrase“step for.”

1. A walking apparatus, comprising: a sole having an adjustable length,the sole comprising: a heel portion; a forefoot portion operativelycoupled to the heel portion, the forefoot portion configured foradjustment from a first position to at least one other position relativeto the heel portion; wherein a length of the sole is configured toadjust from a first length to a second length when the forefoot portionis adjusted from the first position to the at least one other position.2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein: the sole comprises a plurality ofpredetermined parameters; and at least one of the plurality ofpredetermined parameters of the sole is maintained when the length ofthe sole is adjusted from the first length to the second length.
 3. Theapparatus of claim 2, wherein: the plurality of predetermined parametersinclude a radius of curvature of the sole; and the radius of curvatureof the sole is maintained when the length of the sole adjusts from thefirst length to the second length.
 4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein:the sole includes a treaded surface; the plurality of parameters includethe treaded surface configurable to traverse the length of the sole fromthe heel portion to the forefoot portion; and when the length of thesole adjusts from the first length to the second length, a length of thetreaded surface adjusts to traverse the second length of the sole. 5.The apparatus of claim 4, wherein: the sole includes a first treadportion and a second tread portion; the heel portion includes the firsttread portion; and the forefoot portion includes the second treadportion.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein when the forefoot portionis adjusted from the first position to the at least one other position,the second tread portion is configured to adjust its position relativeto the second tread portion.
 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein thesecond tread portion is configured to either overhang the first treadportion or retract behind the first tread portion relative to adirection of adjustment of the forefoot portion from the first positionto the at least one other position.
 8. The apparatus of claim 6, whereinthe second tread portion is configured to either move away from thefirst tread portion creating a gap or move towards the first treadportion to close the gap relative to a direction of adjustment of theforefoot portion from the first position to the at least one otherposition.
 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein at least one of the firsttread portion and the second tread portion includes at least oneextension that extends into at least one corresponding channel in theother of the at least one of the first tread portion or the second treadportion.
 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein when the forefoot portionis adjusted from the first position to the at least one other position,the at least one extension is configured to move into or out of the atleast one corresponding channel traversing the gap and maintaining thetreaded surface along the length of the sole from the heel portion tothe forefoot portion.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprisinga middle portion including a third tread portion configured to move awayfrom at least one of the first tread portion or the second tread portioncreating at least one additional gap or move toward one or more of thefirst tread portion or the second tread portion to close the at leastone additional gap, wherein the third tread portion includes at leastone extension that extends into at least one corresponding channel in atleast one of the first tread portion and the second tread portion. 12.The apparatus of claim 11, wherein when the forefoot portion is adjustedfrom the first position to the at least one other position, the at leastone extension of the third tread is configured to move into or out ofthe at least one corresponding channel in the at least one of the firsttread portion and the second tread portion traversing the at least oneadditional gap and maintaining the treaded surface along the length ofthe sole from the heel portion to the forefoot portion.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 6, wherein a radius of curvature of the sole ismaintained when the second tread portion adjusts relative to the firsttread portion.
 14. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the sole comprisesa unitary structure including the treaded surface that traverses thelength sole.
 15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the unitarystructure is configured to adjust from the first length to the secondlength of the sole when the forefoot portion is adjusted from the firstposition to the at least one other position.
 16. The apparatus of claim15, wherein the unitary structure is configured to expand or compress toconform to the second length of the sole when the forefoot portion isadjusted from the first position to the at least one other position. 17.The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the second tread portion isoperatively coupled to the forefoot portion and is configured to beslidably received within the forefoot portion.
 18. The apparatus ofclaim 17, wherein when the second tread portion is extended from theforefoot portion, a radius of curvature of the sole is maintained.19-41. (canceled)
 42. A walking apparatus kit, comprising: a base; aheel portion including a first tread portion; a plurality of forefootportions each having a different length and a second tread portion, eachof the plurality of forefoot portions configured for individual couplingto the heel portion; wherein when one of the plurality of forefootportions is coupled to the heel portion, the first tread portion and thesecond tread portion form a sole. 43-58. (canceled)
 59. A walkingapparatus, comprising: a sole having an adjustable length, the solecomprising: a heel portion; a forefoot portion operatively coupled tothe heel portion, the forefoot portion configured for adjustment from afirst position to at least one other position; wherein a width of thesole is configured to adjust from a first width to a second width whenthe forefoot portion is adjusted from the first position to the at leastone other position.